Structure Fire at 424 Depot Street

In a joint statement, Investigators from the Galesburg Fire and Police Departments have determined that the fire early this morning at 424 Depot Street in Galesburg was intentionally set. Working in conjunction with officials from the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office, the investigators have been on scene most of the day at the Carver Community Action Agency that is the home of the Boys and Girls Club of Knox County.

At 2:28 a.m. today, fire crews were alerted to the fire in the 1940’s main building that sits on the north portion of the property. Flames were issuing from the east side windows and smoke was pushing from the eaves on all sides. Two hose lines were stretched and after hitting the fire at the front door, crews forced entry into the structure. There was significant fire in the office and main hallway that had extended into the attic. With limited doors and windows in the structure, a large vent hole was cut in the roof to relieve smoke and heat conditions and to make conditions tenable for firefighters. A primary search was conducted and no victims were found. Ventilation was difficult, especially in the 1970's gymnasium as power needed to be cut at the pole by Ameren for the safety of responders. The fire left significant damage to the main building and smoke damage to the gymnasium. No injuries to responders has been reported.

Anyone with information about this fire is encouraged to contact the Galesburg Area Crime Stoppers tip line at 309/344-0044 or by texting "GALESBURG" plus the tip to number 274637. Both ways are anonymous.